Cayman Islands

Twenty metres below the surface of the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Malaysian Borneo, I'm getting blasted by the ripping current. Desperately, I grasp at the loose coral littering the top of the reef wall trying to find an anchor. My husband Aaron has a slippery grip on my other hand and my two younger sisters are clutching the tips of my fins. It would be downright comical if I weren't concentrating...

Most Popular - Travel

Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: December 04, 2017 16:34 EST1. RECENT UPDATESAn editorial change was made.2. ADVISORIESCayman Islands - Take normal security precautionsTake normal security precautions in the Cayman Islands.3. SECURITYCrimeIncidents of robbery and assault, including sexual assault, occasionally occur. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Do not bring personal belongings to the beach. Avoid solo trips to deserted beaches or poorly lit areas after dark.Spiked foods and drinksNever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.Road safetyRoad conditions may be poor.Safe public minibuses run on the main roads.Taxis, mopeds, scooters and rental cars are widely available. Some rental agencies' insurance may not cover drivers under the age of 25.Air travelWe do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.Learn more about foreign domestic airlines.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSEvery country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination's entry or exit requirements.We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.PassportCanadians must present valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and a proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate) to visit the Cayman Islands.However, airlines have the right to refuse boarding to any passenger if they are not satisfied with the validity of the travel documents presented, regardless of the country's immigration entry rules. In order to avoid delays and other problems you should obtain a Canadian passport before initiating international travel and carry it for all visits outside Canada.Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from the Cayman Islands by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency's website.Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.VisasTourist visa: Not required for stays up to six monthsWork permit: RequiredStudent visa: RequiredChildren and travelLearn about travel with children.Yellow feverLearn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesMedical facilities and services are generally good. Severe conditions may require medical evacuation to the United States. Some clinics and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for medical services.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou must abide by local laws.Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.Canada and United Kingdom are signatories to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and British authorities.Illegal drugsPenalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.DrivingTraffic drives on the left.You must be over 21 years of age to drive in the Cayman Islands, and possess either an International Driving Permit or a visitor's driving permit. You can obtain a visitor's driving permit from the driver's licence department in Cayman, located beside the central police station. You will need to present a valid Canadian passport and a valid Canadian driver's licence.Imports and exportsLocal customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the temporary import or export of items such as firearms, spear guns, medications, agricultural products, and animals (including sea turtle products). Note that anything delivering a projectile is considered a firearm; special permits may be required prior to arrival. Contact the British High Commission in Ottawa for specific information regarding customs requirements.MarriagesIf you are planning to marry in the Cayman Islands, ensure that you meet all requirements and have all necessary documents before leaving Canada. Most countries require a certificate stating that there are no Canadian impediments to your marriage.MoneyThe currency is the Cayman Islands dollar (KYD). U.S. dollars and traveller's cheques are widely accepted.InvestmentsIf you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in the Cayman Islands, seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Cayman Islands before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEHurricane seasonThe hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

Almost Done!

Postmedia wants to improve your reading experience as well as share the best deals and promotions from our advertisers with you. The information below will be used to optimize the content and make ads across the network more relevant to you. You can always change the information you share with us by editing your profile.

By clicking "Create Account", I hearby grant permission to Postmedia to use my account information to create my account.

I also accept and agree to be bound by Postmedia's Terms and Conditions with respect to my use of the Site and I have read and understand Postmedia's Privacy Statement. I consent to the collection, use, maintenance, and disclosure of my information in accordance with the Postmedia's Privacy Policy.

Postmedia wants to improve your reading experience as well as share the best deals and promotions from our advertisers with you. The information below will be used to optimize the content and make ads across the network more relevant to you. You can always change the information you share with us by editing your profile.

By clicking "Create Account", I hearby grant permission to Postmedia to use my account information to create my account.

I also accept and agree to be bound by Postmedia's Terms and Conditions with respect to my use of the Site and I have read and understand Postmedia's Privacy Statement. I consent to the collection, use, maintenance, and disclosure of my information in accordance with the Postmedia's Privacy Policy.